Preventing frustration in online chat communication

ABSTRACT

Monitoring an internet chat in which a text transcript is generated by at least two chat participants, by: (i) performing a simple check on the text transcript for existence of a potential frustration precondition; and (ii) on condition that a frustration precondition is found, performing text analytics type analysis on the text transcript to determine whether potential frustration is evidenced by the text transcript. If it is determined that potential frustration is evidenced by the chat transcript then responsive action is taken to prevent and/or stem the frustration.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/868,137 filed Apr. 23, 2013 the entire content and disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of online chatsessions, and more particularly to mood detection and response topromote effective communication in online chat sessions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) is a communicative transactionthat occurs over a network. CMC is divided into synchronous andasynchronous types.

Asynchronous computer-mediated communication (ACMC) refers to a type ofcommunication where the communicators (often referred to herein as“users,” see Definitions, below) are not assumed to all be online,actively connected to the communication network, at the same time.Because not all users are online at the same time, in ACMC, successivecommunications are generally subject to significant time delays, withthe time delays being caused by the hardware/software of thecommunication system and/or the manner in which users use thecommunication system. One familiar example of ACMC is e-mailcommunication systems.

Synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) refers to a type ofcommunications where at least two of the communicators are online at thesame time. One familiar example is a real-time online chat session (forexample, an internet relay chat (IRC) chat session. One type of SCMC ischat-protocol-based synchronous computer-mediated communication(CPSCMC), which are based on protocols designed for the purpose ofimplementing real-time (see Definitions, below) chat sessions. In theart of SCMC, it is known a communicator will sometimes express heremotions to other communicator(s) through one or more of the followingways: (i) the substance of their writing (for example, use of the phrase“I wub u” to indicate love); (ii) the punctuation of their writing (forexample, use of ALL CAPS text to indicate vexation); (iii) theformatting of their writing (for example, underlining to indicateurgency); and/or (iv) emoticons (for example, the characters “: 7 (” toindicate sadness through a sideways frowny face).

Some remarks to avoid confusion on terminology will now be set forth inthis paragraph. The term of art “computer-mediated communication” (andSCMC and ACMC) should not be taken to imply any person or softwarenecessarily plays the role of a “mediator” in the communications.Rather, in the art, “computer-mediated communication” is understood tobe communications that are merely implemented by, and over, computersystems. In CMC (as in traditional face-to-face communications betweenhumans) there certainly can be a person who plays the traditional roleof a “mediator,” but this is not what the word “mediated” in the phrase“computer-mediated communication” means or implies. In other words CMCsessions don't necessarily, and usually do not, have any sort of entitythat actively tries to get the relevant parties to come to any kind ofagreement with respect to the subject matter of the CMC communications.

There currently exists software for determining (or at least attemptingto determine) a writer's mood based on the writer's natural languagewritings. The input data is parsed and processed to selectwriting-related data relevant to the writer's mood. For example, someconventional text analytics engines include mood determination software.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is computerprogram product, for monitoring a synchronous computer-mediatedcommunication (SCMC) in which a text transcript is generated by at leasttwo chat participants. The product includes software stored on asoftware storage device. The software includes: (i) first programinstructions programmed to set up and maintain an SCMC communicationsystem between a plurality of chat participants; and (ii) second programinstructions programmed to check for potential frustration. The softwareis stored on a software storage device in a manner less transitory thana signal in transit.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is a methodof monitoring a synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) inwhich a text transcript is generated by at least two chat participants.The method includes: (i) performing a simple check on the texttranscript for existence of a potential frustration precondition; and(ii) on condition that a frustration precondition is found at theperforming-a-simple-check step, performing text analytics analysis onthe text transcript to determine whether potential frustration isevidenced by the text transcript. The performing-a-simple-check step andthe performing-text-analytics-type-analysis steps are performed by thecomputer system running under software control.

According to other aspects of the present invention, the methodincludes: (i) on condition that potential frustration is determined atthe performing-text-analytics-analysis step, taking a responsive actiondesigned to minimize or prevent frustration on the part of the chatparticipants; (ii) the responsive action in (i) further includes atleast one of the following: (a) automatically, and under softwarecontrol, making a suggestion to at least one of the chat participantswith respect to how the communication may be conducted; and/or (b)automatically, and under software control, taking direct action; (iii)the performing-a-simple-check step includes the sub-step of checking aset of at least one dictionary(ies) for use, in the text transcript, ofone or more key phrase(s) that are frustration preconditions; (iv) theset of at least one dictionary(ies) in (iii) includes at least onedictionary that is customizable by at least one chat participant; (v)the performing-a-simple-check step includes the sub-step of checking forsome threshold amount of repetition of language in the text transcript,with the threshold amount of repetition being a frustrationprecondition; and/or (vi) the performing-a-simple-check step comprisesthe sub-step of checking meta-text in the text transcript for meta-textcorresponding to a predetermined frustration precondition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a system ofcomputers (also referred to as a computer system) according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a server computer sub-system portion ofthe first embodiment computer system;

FIG. 2B is a schematic view of a chat member computer sub-system portionof the first embodiment computer system;

FIG. 3A is a flowchart showing a process according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 3B is a flowchart showing a process according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4A is a schematic view of a frustration server software portion ofthe first embodiment computer system;

FIG. 4B is a schematic view of a frustration local software portion ofthe first embodiment computer system;

FIG. 5A is a first chat transcript, generated on, and partially undercontrol of, the first embodiment computer system; and

FIG. 5B is a second chat transcript, generated on, and partially undercontrol of, the first embodiment computer system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The DETAILED DESCRIPTION section will be divided into the followingsub-sections: (i) The Hardware and Software Environment; (ii) Operationof Embodiment(s) of the Present Invention; (iii) Further Comments and/orEmbodiments; and (iv) Definitions.

I. The Hardware and Software Environment

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the presentinvention may be embodied as a system, method or computer programproduct. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the formof an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment(including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or anembodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may allgenerally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.”Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of acomputer program product embodied in one or more computer-readablemedium(s) having computer readable program code/instructions embodiedthereon.

Any combination of computer-readable media may be utilized.Computer-readable media may be a computer-readable signal medium or acomputer-readable storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium maybe, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical,electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, ordevice, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specificexamples (a non-exhaustive list) of a computer-readable storage mediumwould include the following: an electrical connection having one or morewires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory(RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compactdisc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magneticstorage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In thecontext of this document, a computer-readable storage medium may be anytangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or inconnection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

A computer-readable signal medium may include a propagated data signalwith computer-readable program code embodied therein, for example, inbaseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may takeany of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to,electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. Acomputer-readable signal medium may be any computer-readable medium thatis not a computer-readable storage medium and that can communicate,propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with aninstruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Program code embodied on a computer-readable medium may be transmittedusing any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless,wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination ofthe foregoing.

Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of thepresent invention may be written in any combination of one or moreprogramming languages, including an object oriented programming languagesuch as Java (note: the term(s) “Java” may be subject to trademarkrights in various jurisdictions throughout the world and are used hereonly in reference to the products or services properly denominated bythe marks to the extent that such trademark rights may exist),Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programminglanguages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programminglanguages. The program code may execute entirely on a user's computer,partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partlyon the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely onthe remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remotecomputer may be connected to the user's computer through any type ofnetwork, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network(WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (forexample, through the internet using an Internet Service Provider).

Aspects of the present invention are described below with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus(systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of theinvention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchartillustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented bycomputer program instructions. These computer program instructions maybe provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, specialpurpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus toproduce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via theprocessor of the computer or other programmable data processingapparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified inthe flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmabledata processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablemedium produce an article of manufacture including instructions whichimplement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer,other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, otherprogrammable apparatus or other devices to produce acomputer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute onthe computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

A hardware and software environment suitable for implementation of someembodiments of the present invention will now be described in detailwith reference to the Figures. FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B collectively make upa functional block diagram of distributed data processing system (alsocalled computer system) 100, including: chat server computer sub-system102; chat member computer sub-systems 104, 106, and 108; datacommunication network 110; chat server computer 200; communication unit202; processor(s) 204; memory component 208; RAM (random access memory)component 230; cache 232; persistent storage component 210; chatsoftware 240; frustration server software 242; I/O (input/output)interface(s) 206; display device 212; external devices 214; chat membercomputer 250; communication unit 252; processor(s) 254; memory component258; RAM component 270; cache 272; persistent storage component 260;chat software 280; frustration local software 282; i/o interface(s) 256;display device 262; and external devices 264.

Chat software 240, chat software 280, and their various constituentmodules implement synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC)system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This will bediscussed in detail in the next sub-section of this DETAILED DESCRIPTIONsection. For the rest of this sub-section, the hardware and softwareenvironment, in which software 240, 280 operates, will be discussed indetail. In many respects, chat server sub-system 102 is representativeof the various computer sub-systems of the present invention. Therefore,this discussion of the hardware and software environment will focus onthe various components of sub-system 102.

While chat server sub-system 102 is used herein as a representative andexplanatory embodiment, a computer sub-system of the present inventionmay alternatively be a laptop computer, tablet computer, netbookcomputer, personal computer (PC), a desktop computer, a smart phone, apersonal digital assistant (PDA), or any programmable electronic devicecapable of communicating with the client sub-systems via network 110. Asshown in FIG. 2A, chat software 240 is a collection of machine readableinstructions and data that is used to manage and control the network ofmultiple client devices of system 100. Many portions of chat software240 are conventional, but some inventive aspects of chat software 240(and especially its frustration server software 242) will be discussedin detail below.

Similar to chat server sub-system 102, chat member sub-system 104 is ageneral purpose computer sub-system. The similarities will becomeapparent in further discussion of chat server sub-system 102, below.

Moving back to chat server sub-system 102 shown in FIG. 1, network 110can be, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network(WAN) such as the internet, or a combination of the two, and can includewired, wireless, or fiber optic connections. In general, network 110 canbe any combination of connections and protocols that will supportcommunications between server and client sub-systems.

It should be appreciated that FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, taken together,provide only an illustration of one implementation (that is, system 100)and does not imply any limitations with regard to the environments inwhich different embodiments may be implemented. Many modifications tothe depicted environment may be made, especially with respect to currentand anticipated future advances in cloud computing, distributedcomputing, smaller computing devices, network communications and thelike.

Turning again to FIG. 2A, chat server sub-system 102 is shown as a blockdiagram with many double arrows. These double arrows (no separatereference numerals) represent a communications fabric, which providescommunications between various components of sub-system 102 as shown inFIG. 2A. This communications fabric can be implemented with anyarchitecture designed for passing data and/or control informationbetween processors (such as microprocessors, communications and networkprocessors, etc.), system memory, peripheral devices, and any otherhardware components within a system. For example, the communicationsfabric can be implemented, at least in part, with one or more buses.

Memory 208 and persistent storage 210 are computer-readable storagemedia. In general, memory 208 can include any suitable volatile ornon-volatile computer-readable storage media. It is further noted that,now and/or in the near future: (i) external device(s) 214 may be able tosupply, some or all, memory for sub-system 102; and/or (ii) devicesexternal to sub-system 102 may be able to provide memory for sub-system102.

Chat software 240 and frustration server software 242 are stored inpersistent storage 210 for access and/or execution by one or more of therespective computer processor(s) 204, usually through one or morememories of memory 208. Persistent storage 210 is at least morepersistent than a signal in transit is, but the persistent storage may,of course, be substantially less persistent than permanent storage. Chatsoftware 240 may include both machine readable and performableinstructions and/or substantive data (that is, the type of data storedin a database). In this particular embodiment, persistent storage 210includes a magnetic hard disk drive. To name some possible variations,persistent storage 210 may include a solid state hard drive, asemiconductor storage device, read-only memory (ROM), erasableprogrammable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or any othercomputer-readable storage media that is capable of storing programinstructions or digital information.

The media used by persistent storage 210 may also be removable. Forexample, a removable hard drive may be used for persistent storage 210.Other examples include optical and magnetic disks, thumb drives, andsmart cards that are inserted into a drive for transfer onto anothercomputer-readable storage medium that is also part of persistent storage210.

Communications unit 202, in these examples, provides for communicationswith other data processing systems or devices external to chat serversub-system 102, such as chat member sub-systems 104, 106, and 108. Inthese examples, communications unit 202 includes one or more networkinterface cards. Communications unit 202 may provide communicationsthrough the use of either or both physical and wireless communicationslinks. Any software modules discussed herein may be downloaded to apersistent storage device (such as persistent storage device 210)through a communications unit (such as communications unit 202).

I/O interface(s) 206 allows for input and output of data with otherdevices that may be connected locally in data communication with chatserver computer 200. For example, I/O interface 206 provides aconnection to external device set 214. External device set 214 willtypically include portable computer-readable storage media such as, forexample, thumb drives, portable optical or magnetic disks, and memorycards. Software and data used to practice embodiments of the presentinvention, for example, chat software 240, can be stored on suchportable computer-readable storage media. In these embodiments therelevant software may (or may not) be loaded, in whole or in part, ontopersistent storage device 210 via I/O interface(s) 206. I/O interface(s)206 also connects in data communication with display device 212.

Display device 212 provides a mechanism to display data to a user andmay be, for example, a computer monitor or a smart phone display screen.

The programs described herein are identified based upon the applicationfor which they are implemented in a specific embodiment of theinvention. However, it should be appreciated that any particular programnomenclature herein is used merely for convenience, and thus theinvention should not be limited to use solely in any specificapplication identified and/or implied by such nomenclature.

II. Operation of Embodiment(s) of the Present Invention

The flowchart and block diagrams in the following Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof code, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be notedthat, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in theblock may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, twoblocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantiallyconcurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverseorder, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be notedthat each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, andcombinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchartillustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-basedsystems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations ofspecial purpose hardware and computer instructions.

FIG. 3A is a flowchart depicting process 300 a in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. The various steps of process 300 awill now be discussed in turn.

Process 300 a begins at step S301, where various chat member computersub-systems 104, 106, and 108 (see FIG. 1) communicate over network 110as a number of users, or chat participants, are engaged in CPSCMC in theform of a real-time chat session. Real-time chat sessions provide usersan opportunity to communicate in real-time via a text-based dialog boxthat: (i) shows up on their respective screens; and (ii) allows them tocommunicate through text entered through their respective input devices(for example, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, talk-to-text inputsub-system, etc.). There are many CPSCMC systems (now known and to bedeveloped in the future) respectively designed and tailored forcommunication in a diverse variety of social and/or business settings.CPSCMC is also being adopted by multi-national business organizations.The use of CPSCMC can expand an individual employee's real-timeinfluence beyond the physical walls of an office building to effectivelyconvert the employee's office into a virtual office having global reach.CPSCMC allows users to effectively break through geographic barriers tocommunication, but this can expose differences between the communicatorsincluding differences in: (i) most fluent language; and (ii) culture.

Chat sessions generally lack useful indicators of mood available duringoral and/or face-to-face discussions such as: (i) facial expressions;(ii) voice intonations; (iii) speaking speed; (iv) speaking volume;and/or (v) hand gestures. Misunderstandings during real-time chat oftenlead to stalled discussions, which can delay projects and create newbarriers between users. Some embodiments of the present invention workto detect potential for frustration (also herein called simply“frustration”) before the potential for frustration leads to strongerand more definite negative emotions such as: (i) anger; (ii) discomfort;(iii) confusion; (iv) disappointment; (v) apathy; (vi) depression; (vii)lethargy; (viii) melancholy; (ix) stubbornness; (x)non-communicativeness; and/or (xi) vexation. In the discussion below ofan embodiment of the present invention, detection of the mood ofpotential frustration (of, simply, frustration) and subsequentintervention is discussed in detail.

Process 300 a proceeds to step S300 b (shown as a block in FIG. 3A andin more detail in FIG. 3B), where detect frustration preconditionmodules 404, 504 (see FIGS. 4A and 4B) determine whether a frustrationprecondition appears in the text of the ongoing chat taking place instep S301. A frustration precondition is a text-based indication thatone or more of the chat participants may be frustrated. Text-basedsignals include: (i) key phrases; (ii) meta-texts (as the term“meta-text” will be explained, below); and/or (iii) repetition. Thesefrustration preconditions are simple and quick to detect so that thisdetection of preconditions is continuously ongoing without perceptiblydelaying a real-time chat session (or other SCMC communication session).Accordingly, these frustration preconditions are not full-blown textanalytics, which is a relatively time-consuming process.

FIG. 3B is a flowchart depicting step S300 b for detecting a frustrationprecondition in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.The various sub-steps of step S300 b will now be discussed in turn.Process 300 b begins at step S350, where global dictionary checksub-module 450 of detect frustration precondition mod 404 (see FIG. 4A)parses an ongoing chat for key phrases included in global dictionary 408(see FIG. 4A).

A “key phrase” is a word or phrase designated as a potential indicatorof a particular mood, such as frustration. Key phrases are maintained inglobal dictionary 408, local dictionary 508, and/or user-specificdictionary 510 (see FIGS. 4A and 4B). In this embodiment, some keyphrases that potentially indicate frustration include: (i) frustrated;(ii) annoying; (iii) tired; (iv) do you understand (also, “do u [sic]understand,” for those that use common internet-type abbreviations whenthey chat); (v) is this clear; (vi) I'm not sure I follow (also, “Im[sic] not sure I follow,” for those that drop apostrophes when theychat); (vii) not an expert; (viii) restate that; (ix) I have no xxx idea(where xxx is a wildcard that may indicate an insertion of an additionalword into the key phrase by a given communicator); and/or (x) escalate.

Global dictionary 408 (see FIG. 4A) is a collection of generallyapplicable key phrases that are expected to apply to any and all usersin their real-time chat sessions. The key phrases included in globaldictionary 408 may be established by: (i) the designer of frustrationsoftware; (ii) corporate or regional SCMC policy; and/or (iii) otherorganizational units, such as a particular department or business unit.When any chatter, system-wide, uses a key phrase in global dictionary408 it will be determined (and determined relatively quickly) at step300 b that a frustration precondition had indeed been met (unless thatdetermination is overridden by local dictionary 508 or user-specificdictionary 510 as will be discussed below).

Processing proceeds to step S352, where local dictionary checksub-module 550 parses an ongoing chat for key phrases included in localdictionary 508.

A user may establish key phrases, specific to that user, that are notincluded in global dictionary 408 (or to override the globaldictionary). These “local-user-specific key phrases” are entered intolocal dictionary 508 (see FIG. 4B). The local-user-specific key phrasesare applicable during all chats of the user of client sub-system 104(see FIGS. 1 and 2B), regardless of whom the local user is chattingwith. In this way, the local user can fill in perceived gaps in the listof key phrases in global dictionary 408. When the local user of clientsub-system 104 is chatting with any other user who uses a key phrase inlocal dictionary 508, it will be determined (and determined relativelyquickly) at step 300 b that a frustration precondition had indeed beenmet (unless that determination is overridden by user-specific dictionary510 as will be discussed below). Also, using local dictionary 508, auser can override a key phrase in the global dictionary so that a keyphrase in the global dictionary, which would normally be taken as afrustration precondition at step S300 b, is not taken as a frustrationprecondition.

Processing proceeds to step S353, where user-specific dictionary checksub-module 552 parses an ongoing chat for key phrases included inuser-specific dictionary 510.

If the user knows of text-based frustration indicators for a particularchat participant, she enters those key phrases into user-specificdictionary 510. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4B, theuser-specific dictionary includes sub-dictionaries A (reference numeral560), B (reference numeral 580), C (reference numeral 585) respectivelycorresponding to each other user with whom the local user has chatted.For example, the local user (herein sometimes called user D) recognizesthat user B is becoming frustrated whenever user B uses the term“gotcha” during a chat session. User D can enter the term “gotcha” intouser-specific sub-dictionary B 580 (see FIG. 4B) as a key phrasespecific to her chats (on client sub-system 104) with user B only. Inthis example, when user B uses the word “gotcha” in a chat with user D,then at step 300 b (see FIG. 3A) it will be determined (and determinedrelatively quickly) that a frustration precondition had indeed been met.Also, using user specific dictionary 510, a user can override a keyphrase in the global dictionary and/or local dictionary so that a keyphrase in the global and/or local dictionary, which would normally betaken as a frustration precondition at step S300 b, is not taken as afrustration precondition.

The “dictionaries” 408, 508, and 510 do not generally define words, but,rather, are tables where each key phrases table entry is recorded withseveral support fields of associated information including the followingsupport fields: (i) an indication of how strongly the key phraseindicates potential frustration; (ii) context hints for aiding in thetext analytics analysis (to be discussed below); (iii) proposedresponses for situations where the key phrase has been used; and/or (iv)override information (see above discussion of overriding of onedictionary by another dictionary). Not every key phrase will havecorresponding information in all (or even in any) of the support fields,but the support fields are available in this particular embodiment tohelp demonstrate some of the sophisticated techniques that are used insome embodiments of the present invention.

Processing proceeds to step S354, where meta-text check sub-mod 454parses an ongoing chat for meta-text stored in meta-text database 416(see FIG. 4A). A meta-text is a character, string of characters and/or aset of formatting that is potentially indicative of a mood, such asfrustration, either by formatting or by sequential arrangement, such asemoticons. Meta-texts are stored in meta-text database 416 (see FIG.4A). Examples of meta-texts that indicate frustration include: (i) somethreshold amount of text in all capital letters; (ii) emoticons showingfrustration; (iii) some threshold amount of exclamation point (“!”)punctuation; (iv) some threshold amount of bold text; (v) large fontsize; and/or (vi) highlighted text. This is by no means an exhaustivelist of meta-text frustration preconditions, but merely an exemplarylist to help the reader understand how meta-text frustrationpreconditions are different than the key phrase type of frustrationprecondition discussed above.

Processing proceeds to step S355, where repetition check sub-module 452(see FIG. 4A) parses an ongoing chat for repetition of words and/orphrases. Repetition of words and/or phrases indicates a stalledconversation. The potential for frustration is reasonably detected wherewords and phrases are repeated. Repetition check sub-mod 452 (see FIG.4A) is included in detect frustration server software 242 because of thelikelihood that repetition will indicate frustration. When other moodsare the subject of detection, there may be no repetition check sub-mod452, but another related sub-mod may be included depending on theparticular mood to be detected.

Processing proceeds to step S356, where detect frustration preconditionmod 404 (see FIG. 4A) determines whether or not a frustrationprecondition exists based upon the checks performed at steps S350, S352,S353, S354 and S355. As explained in detail above, this check forpreconditions of step S300 b involves cooperation and communicationbetween server computer 200 (and its frustration server software 242)and chat member computer 250 (and its frustration local software 282).In this way, the detection of the frustration precondition can draw oninsights made and coded at both the global level (that is, the serverlevel) and the user level.

When a frustration precondition (for example, a key phrase, meta-text,or repetition) is identified in the ongoing chat by mod 404, process 300a (see FIG. 3A) advances to step S303, where text analytics module 412(see FIG. 4A) performs text analytics on (at least a portion of) thetext of the on-going chat session in order to attempt to make a moreaccurate determination of whether the potential for frustration trulyexists in the users undertaking the on-going chat. Text analytics mod412 includes commercially available add-on software for contextualanalysis of chat transcripts and/or customized context helpers.

Examples of commercial text analysis engines include: (i) VisualText® (aproduct and/or service of Text Analysis International, Inc. of PaloAlto, Calif. USA); and (ii) Salience Engine™ (a product and/or serviceof Lexalytics, Inc. of Amherst, Mass. USA). The term(s) “VisualText” and“Salience Engine” may be subject to trademark rights in variousjurisdictions throughout the world and are used here only in referenceto the products or services properly denominated by the marks to theextent that such trademark rights may exist). As further example ofcurrently-commercially-available text analytics support products and/orservices, the websitehttp://www-01.ibm.com/software/ebusiness/jstart/textanalytics/disclosesas follows: “[There exist solutions] built upon technologies unique toIBM: LanguageWare™ (LW) and IBM Content Analytics (ICA). Both areflexible and extensible natural language processing solutions that:Provides an easy to use environment for capturing the knowledge of yourbusiness domain experts into dictionaries and semantic rules forre-use[;] Allows customizable Information Extraction for logicalreasoning to draw inferences from natural, unstructuredcommunications[;] Offers Entity & Relationship Recognition to classifywords or phrases into categories that can be analyzed for businessmeaning[; and] Fits seamlessly into existing e-mail, instant messaging,business intelligence, and various other desktop or mainframeapplications.”

Text analytics mod 412 applies text analytics methods (as now knownand/or to be developed in the future) to the chat transcript tounderstand the context in which the frustration precondition(s) arose.This application of text analytics determines, in a relativelyprocessing-intensive, but potentially more accurate, way: (i) that thereis, in fact, potential frustration; and/or (ii) a potential cause of thepotential frustration.

In addition to its built-in capabilities text analytics mod 412 mayaccess the various dictionaries (which may include context hintsrespectively associated with key phrases, as mentioned above) andfrustration precondition data to assist in making frustrationdeterminations and/or cause of frustration determinations in the mostaccurate manner feasible and/or possible. Context hints, when available,provide contextual clues for determining whether or not the specifiedkey phrase indicates frustration. For example, the key phrase “defeated”may not indicate actionable frustration in the context of sports, evenif it is generally indicative of potential for frustration in non-sportscontexts. Accordingly, global dictionary 408 may include a context hintin the entry for “defeated” explaining, in machine readable language,that “defeated” is not indicative of frustration in a chat which has thesubject matter of some kind of sport. Because the enterprise or user cancustomize the dictionaries, these context hints effectively allow theuser to have some influence over the operation of the complex textanalytics processes, at least when such processes were set in motion bythe detection of a suspect “key phrase.”

Similarly, because the dictionaries have a field for frustrationstrength associated with a key phrase, and because the text analyticsmod has access to this information, the enterprise and/or user cancustomize the dictionaries to assist the text analytics engine. Forexample, the word “bloody” may indicate potential for frustration (andeven a serious etiquette breach) in some circumstances, but a chatsystem for paramedics may customize this term to have a very lowfrustration potential associated with it because of the fact that theparamedics frequently deal with blood in the normal course of theirprofessional business.

Text analytics mod 412 may also use meta-text in its text analyticsanalysis, but it does not necessarily do so, depending upon the textanalytics engine that powers mod 412. Similarly, repetition of wordsand/or phrases may or may not be used by mod 412 depending upon the textanalytics engine that powers mod 412.

When text analytics module 412 confirms the extant potential forfrustration that was initially indicated by frustration precondition atstep S300 b, mod 412 goes on to attempt to determine the cause of thepotential frustration. In that way, appropriate responses can beprepared, as will be discussed further below. Types of causes ofpotential frustration detected by mod 412 include: (i) subject mattercontent; (ii) language; (iii) subject matter clarity; (iv)vocabulary/reading level; and (v) etiquette.

Subject matter content caused potential frustration arises when thesubject matter of the chat transcript is substantive content that islikely to cause the people chatting about the subject matter to feelfrustrated, such as a recent tragic or difficult event. In some cases,actual frustration is detected, but the frustration is an expectedemotion based on the topic of the chat. For example, a tsunami has takenmany lives and the chat participants are voicing their frustration overthe event. Frustration will be detected (as a precondition in step S300b and again as a matter of analytics at step S303, but text analyticsmodule 412 will determine that the type of frustration is subject mattercontent frustration.

Language caused frustration may occur when the language of the chatsession is not the first language (or most comfortable language) of oneor more of the participants. When a chat participant struggles withunderstanding the language being used, one or more of the chatparticipants may become frustrated as chatting continues.

Subject matter clarity caused frustration is distinguished from subjectmatter content caused frustration, discussed above, in that the sourceof frustration is the subject matter not being explained clearly or therecipient of the information not understanding what is being written.This may arise when a difficult topic, such as Einstein's theory ofrelativity is being discussed. As will be discussed below in an extendedexample, subject matter clarity caused frustration can also arise in thecontext of computer use and/or diagnostic procedures, insurance billingprocedures and the like because these procedures tend to be, by theirnature, complex, difficult to understand and difficult to explainclearly.

Vocabulary/reading level caused frustration arises when there is a gapbetween the respective vocabulary or reading levels of the chatparticipants.

Etiquette caused frustration occurs when chat etiquette is not followed.For example, typing in all capital letters, which customarily expressesyelling and/or anger, may lead to etiquette frustration. While a lapsein etiquette may indicate some other underlying problem (such asvocabulary/reading level caused frustration), it may simply be that theparty breaching etiquette simply does not know the etiquette. Forexample, a person who does not often engage in on-line chat may not knowthat typing in ALL CAPS is perceived as something akin to raising one'svoice in a face-to-face conversation.

As shown in FIG. 3A, when context analysis finds no frustration, process300 a returns to step S301. In embodiments where the chat is suspendedwhile text analytics analysis is being performed, the chat will nolonger be suspended. In these embodiments, the fact that detection ofpreconditions (step S300 b) prevents text analytics step S303 fromoccurring all the time will help reduce the number of these suspensionsso that the chat does not depart too far from a real-time basis. On theother hand, in embodiments where the chat is not suspended while the(potentially time-consuming) text analytics of step S303 are performed,there will potentially be a lag between the time that potentialfrustration becomes evident and the time that responses (to be discussedin the following paragraphs) can be made to any potential frustrationconfirmed at text analytics step S303.

If potential frustration is confirmed at step S303, then process 300 aproceeds to step S304, where determine response(s) module 410 (see FIG.4A) determines an appropriate response, or responses, to prevent oralleviate frustration. Some specific possible types of responses will bediscussed below in connection with steps S305 and S306. To determine theoptimal response(s), response mod 410 receives as inputs: (i) employmentdata (from check user status mod 414, which obtains information fromvarious data sources of the enterprises (not shown) through network 110(see FIG. 1)); (ii) text analysis data (from text analytics mod 412);and/or (iii) dictionary data (from dictionaries 408, 508, 510 (see FIGS.4A and 4B)).

Employment data for chat participants includes data such as title,tenure, and expertise. For example, the response of bringing in asubject matter expert may be inappropriate where one of the chatparticipants is designated as an expert in the employment records.Employment data also provides information related to the reportingstructure of the chat participants. It is informative to recognizesituations where the manager of a frustrated chat participant is alreadyparticipating in the chat.

Determine response mod 410 receives text analysis data including: (i)type of cause of potential frustration (as discussed above in connectionwith step S303); and/or (ii) frustration precondition data. The type ofcause of the potential frustration can influence the choice of response,as can the identity of the frustration precondition detected at stepS300 b.

As mentioned above, dictionaries 408, 508, 510 may be populated withrecommended responses that are respectively associated with key phrases.Recommended responses are identified as intervention actions to take ifthe key phrase or other indicator is determined to be used in thecontext of frustration. A specific dictionary entry providing responsesupport for a given key phrase may be taken by determine responses mod410 to pre-empt further processing of suggested responses because thecustomized information in the dictionary may be the best guide to anoptimal response.

After appropriate response(s) are determined at step S304, process 300 aproceeds to step S305, where the software of perform responsive actionmodules 406, 506 (see FIGS. 4A and 5B) operates to implement thedetermined response(s) determined at step S304. Responsive actions maybe performed by frustration server software 242 (mod 406) and/orfrustration local software 282 (mod 506) depending on the actions thatneed to be performed to implement the response(s).

In this embodiment, possible types of responsive actions include: (i)ignore the detected frustration; (ii) providing suggested actions to oneor more chat participants regarding actions that the chat participantcan take; and/or (iii) taking direct action, such as providing atranslation of a key phrase into the native language of a user. Aspecific example of response type (ii) (suggestion to the user(s)) willbe discussed below in connection with FIG. 5A.

A specific example of type (i) (no responsive action) will now bediscussed. As mentioned above, where a recent (or on-going) tragedy isbeing discussed, frustration may well be detected both as a preconditionand again, under the more sophisticated text analytics analysis.However, if the tragedy causes subject matter content frustration (likethe tsunami mentioned above) then there is really nothing the softwarecan do to alleviate the frustration and it is probably best to justallow the chat participants to express their frustration through thechat. It may well be healthy and cathartic for them to chat, even withunmistakable indications of potential (or even realized) frustration. Inthis case, the response type (i) (no responsive action) is best.

A specific example of type (iii) (direct action) will now be mentioned.If a frustrated user is using ALL CAPS then the software might respondby displaying the ALL CAPS text as lower case text on the displays ofthe other chat participant(s). In this case, no action is required onthe part of any user. Rather, the software handles the entire response.

Process 300 a proceeds to step S306, where one or more users respond tosuggested actions provided by the responsive action module. Respondingto suggested actions may be interactive, and involve co-operation,between a chat participant and the frustration software. For example, alist of actions may be provided from which the user selects the actionand the software acts on the selection. In some cases, as noted above,there may be no action taken in step S306, because all appropriateaction was taken directly by the chat frustration software at step S305,or because there is no responsive action to be taken. Regardless of theaction taken, process 300 a returns to step S301, where chat sessioncontinues and mood detection proceeds.

FIG. 5A shows chat transcript 600 a generated according to process 300a. As the top section of the chat transcript shows, A and B arediscussing a computer program problem. More specifically, B is trying tohelp A with a computer problem that A is having. In the first fiveentries in the chat, no frustration preconditions are detected, meaningthat: (i) processing stays in steps S301 and S300 b of process 300 a(see FIG. 3A); and (ii) the time and processor intensive process of textanalytics is not involved because of the lack of potential frustrationpreconditions.

However, in the sixth entry, B repeats the request “Please send me theserver log files.” This means that step S300 b will detect a potentialfrustration precondition based on repetition (see FIG. 3B at steps S355and S356). This means that processing proceeds to step S303 of process300 a (see FIG. 300 a), where text analytics is invoked. The textanalytics analysis of step S303 determines that there is indeedpotential frustration and that this potential frustration is beingcaused by subject matter clarity issues. More specifically, chatparticipant A is not clear on why the server log files are importantand/or where to find them. Step S304 of process 300 a determines tworesponses as follows: (i) a message to chat participant B suggestingthat A explain the importance of the server log files; and (ii) amessage to chat participant A suggesting that A ask B where the serverlog files are located. At step S305 (see FIG. 3A), and as shown in FIG.5A, these suggestions are made by the software, separately to each chatparticipant. At step S306 (see FIG. 3A) the chat participants respond byfollowing the suggestions provided by the software. As shown in FIG. 5A,when the chat participants do follow the software's suggestions, thenthe potential frustration is resolved quickly and in a productivemanner. As an alternative on this example, the software could have beenprogrammed to automatically provide A with an explanation of theimportance of the server log files, and also an explanation of where theserver log files are located.

Screen shot 600 b in FIG. 5B depicts a chat transcript that includes thefrustration precondition of a repeated phrase, specifically the phrase:“It's not prior art.” As discussed above, step S300 b of process 300 acause the text analytics of step S303 to be performed on this chattranscript after the second or third repetition of the repeated phrase.However, unlike the example of transcript 600 a, discussed above, therepetition here does not really indicate potential frustration. Rather,the text analytic engine would not determine any potential frustrationhere because the repetition is natural, productive and responsive, aswould be understood when one has the full understanding and insight intoa conversation that text analytics can provide. For this reason, stepS303 would send processing back to step S301. However, this exampledemonstrates why it can, in some embodiments, be advantageous to doboth: (i) the quick check for frustration preconditions; and (ii) arelatively time and processor intensive, separate check for potentialfrustration based upon text analytics. As transcript 600 b shows, thisscheme can be an advantage even in situations where no potentialfrustration is ultimately found.

Another feature of the user-specific dictionary 510, which was not usedin process 300 a will now be explained. The user may also entercommunication preferences into these user-specific user modules. Whenthe user determines that a particular contact prefers speaking by phone,the user may enter such a preference in the dictionary associated withthat particular other user. In that way, when the user reaches out tothe other user by chat, the user-specific module will invoke a messagefrom the chat administrator notifying the user of the contact'spreference to discuss matters by phone.

For example, user A has worked with user B in the past. User A notedduring the last discussion that User B prefers to speak by telephonerather than chat. User A records in his User B mod of his user-specificdictionary that User B prefers to speak by telephone. When User Aattempts to contact User B by chat, a phone icon appears on User A'sscreen to indicate that User B prefers to speak by phone. When User Bjoins the chat and abruptly asks for a phone call, User A is preparedfor that type of response from User B and graciously agrees to get onthe phone. In this case, both parties avoid a frustrating experience andcommunication lines remain open. As a further example of the operationof an embodiment of the present invention, a message is generated torequest available times for a call for both parties.

III. Further Comments and/or Embodiment(s)

Some embodiments of the present invention provide a method to circumventpotential frustrations in chat-based communication. In some embodimentsof the present invention a service and/or software application monitorsa chat for: (i) key phrases such as: (a) “do you understand,” and/or (b)“is this clear; (ii) repeated phrases (signals that the conversation hasstalled); and/or (iii) signs of frustration such as: (a) bold text, (b)text color, and/or (c) excessive punctuation.

Some embodiments of the present invention include intervention in theconversation if progress is not made. Intervention may include providingoptions such as: (i) translating the information in another language;(ii) signaling to the communicator to try another method ofcommunication; and/or (iii) suggesting ways to rephrase the informationbeing shared.

An example chat session where “context” alone (not repetition and notkey phrase) causes a response by the prevention of frustration softwareis shown below. In the example, C and D have communicated in the pastand C has recorded the contact preference for communicating with D as“by phone.” Chat session proceeds as follows:

-   -   C: Hi D, can you help me with something?    -   [phone icon appears as the communication preference for this        contact]    -   D: Hi C, let's set up a call for later today to discuss this        further. What time is best for you?    -   C: 1:30 PM EST would be good.    -   D: Great I will call you then, at your desk #.    -   C: Thanks.

Some embodiments of the present invention include an option for chatparticipants to subscribe their chat to the mood monitoring service. Theinitiator and recipient may have an option to either use their localsignal dictionary or a global signal dictionary. The initial signaldictionary would be populated with key phrases and visual indicatorsthat signal a conversation has stalled. These key phrases and indicatorsmay include things such as: (i) font size; (ii) style; (iii) color; (iv)punctuation; (v) emoticons; (vi) geography relative to each chatparticipant (as an indication of language barriers); and (vii) commonphrases such as: (a) “Do you understand,” and (b) “Is this clear.”

Some embodiments of the present invention include a signal dictionarythat looks for patterns of communication including: (i) repeatedphrases; and/or (ii) questions. The initial signal dictionary may bedynamically updated. For example, chat participants could update theinitial signal dictionary with: (i) phrases; (ii) contexts; and/or (iii)indicators based on their experiences and communications.

Some embodiments of the present invention include a process such thatwhen the chat is initiated, a service would run that monitors formood-indicating signals. Once a communication stall pattern has beenidentified in a conversation, the chat participants would have a privatemessage displayed in their chat window that would offer a series ofoptions. The displayed options may include, but are not limited to: (i)suggestions for rephrasing the information; (ii) translation serviceoptions; (iii) adding an additional chat participant (such as a topicSME, manager or team lead); and (iv) suggestions for using an alternatecommunication method including: (a) presenting a visual diagram, (b)capturing a screenshot, (c) switching to a conference call or livesession.

Some embodiments of the present invention allow the user to build a setof historical communication preferences by contact. This may be anextension to the service configuration similar to saving chat history.This allows the user to record the effective communication methods usedwith their contacts. These could be indicated with a set of icons nextto the contact name that would indicate that translation services arerequired for the contact or that communication is preferred by a phonecall instead of an instant message conversation.

Some embodiments of the present invention may be implemented forbidirectional real-time communication. The implementation may include amethod to analyze chat-based communication in order to preventfrustration and ensure effective communication between contacts.

Some embodiments of the present invention perform real-time analysis todetermine signs of stagnant communication or the potential forfrustration through the use of a signal dictionary. The initial signaldictionary may be populated with key phrases and visual indicators thatsignal a conversation has stalled. These key phrases and indicatorsinclude: (i) font size; (ii) font style; (iii) font color; (iv)punctuation; (v) emoticons; and (vi) common phrases, such as, “do youunderstand?,” and “is this clear?.” The signal dictionary may also lookfor patterns of communication like repeated phrases or questions. Thesignal dictionary may be dynamically updated. Chat participants couldupdate the signal dictionary with additional phrases, contexts andindicators based on their experiences and communications. This allowsfor signals to be personalized for an individual.

Some embodiments of the present invention address preventing frustrationand ineffective communication by analyzing the real-time communication,taking account effective historical communication methods, and providingsuggestions to ensure the effective flow of communication between chatparticipants/contacts. These options/suggestions would include but arenot limited to, suggestions for rephrasing the information, translationservice options, adding an additional chat participant (topic SME,manager or team lead) and suggestions for using an alternatecommunication method such as a visual diagram, capturing a screenshot,switching to a conference call or live session.

Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention build a set ofhistorical communication preferences by contact. This would be anextension to the service configuration similar to saving chat history.This would allow someone to record the effective communication methodsused with their contacts. These could be indicated with a set of iconsnext to the contact name which would indicate that translation servicesare required for this contact or to schedule a call instead ofdiscussing through instant message.

Some example key phrases follow, along with respectively associatedfrustration-prevention responses relating to the specific key phraseand/or respectively associated helpful context information relating tothe specific key phrase.

Key Word/Phrase: “Do you understand?” may include phrase context as“repeated phrase” and noted responses may be “Try rephrasing theinformation or provide an example” and/or “Ask the participant toexplain in their own words what they understood.”

Key Word/Phrase: “Is this clear?” may include responses: “Restaterequired actions” and/or “Ask if further explanation or clarification isneeded.”

Key Word/Phrase: “I'm not sure I follow” may include the response:“Suggest a live session or phone call to discuss.”

Key Word/Phrase: “I'm not an expert on that topic” may include theresponse: “Invite an SME or another chat participant.”

Key Word/Phrase: “frustrated?” may include phrase context as “I am,”“feeling,” and/or “totally.”

IV. Definitions

Present invention: should not be taken as an absolute indication thatthe subject matter described by the term “present invention” is coveredby either the claims as they are filed, or by the claims that mayeventually issue after patent prosecution; while the term “presentinvention” is used to help the reader to get a general feel for whichdisclosures herein that are believed as maybe being new, thisunderstanding, as indicated by use of the term “present invention,” istentative and provisional and subject to change over the course ofpatent prosecution as relevant information is developed and as theclaims are potentially amended.

Embodiment: see definition of “present invention” above—similar cautionsapply to the term “embodiment.”

And/or: non-exclusive or; for example, A and/or B means that: (i) A istrue and B is false; or (ii) A is false and B is true; or (iii) A and Bare both true.

User/chat participant: includes, but is not necessarily limited to, thefollowing: (i) a single individual human; (ii) an artificialintelligence entity with sufficient intelligence to act as a user;and/or (iii) a group of related users.

Simple check: any check on a body of text that is substantially lessrigorous than text analytics.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of monitoring a synchronouscomputer-mediated communication (SCMC) in which a text transcript isgenerated by at least two chat participants, the method comprising thesteps of: performing a simple check on the text transcript for existenceof a potential frustration precondition; and on condition that afrustration precondition is found at the performing-a-simple-check step,performing text analytics analysis on the text transcript to determinewhether potential frustration is evidenced by the text transcript;wherein: the performing-a-simple-check step and theperforming-text-analytics-type-analysis steps are performed by thecomputer system running under software control.
 2. The method of claim 1further comprising the step of: on condition that potential frustrationis determined at the performing-text-analytics-analysis step, taking aresponsive action designed to minimize or prevent frustration on thepart of the chat participants.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein theresponsive action includes at least one of the following: (i)automatically, and under software control, making a suggestion to atleast one of the chat participants with respect to how the communicationmay be conducted; and (ii) automatically, and under software control,taking direct action.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein theperforming-a-simple-check step comprises the sub-step of checking a setof at least one dictionary for use, in the text transcript, of one ormore key phrases that are frustration preconditions.
 5. The method ofclaim 4 wherein the set of at least one dictionary includes at least onedictionary that is customizable by at least one chat participant.
 6. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the performing-a-simple-check step comprisesthe sub-step of checking for some threshold amount of repetition oflanguage in the text transcript, with the threshold amount of repetitionbeing a frustration precondition.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein theperforming-a-simple-check step comprises the sub-step of checkingmeta-text in the text transcript for meta-text corresponding to apredetermined frustration precondition.